Heavy rains over the past week have compounded the already dire living conditions of the hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, UN agencies say.
UNICEF spokesman Jonathan Crickx expressed extreme concern about children's well-being, noting that the intense rainfall caused up to 15cm (6in) of water accumulation in some areas, presenting risks of hypothermia and illness. Tragically, a newborn has died from exposure, while the health ministry reports multiple fatalities from collapsed buildings due to severe weather.
Recent estimates indicate that approximately 55,000 families have been affected, with their shelters damaged or destroyed. More than 40 emergency shelters have faced severe flooding, necessitating further relocations.
UN agencies have enhanced their delivery of essential supplies, but officials stress that aid is still inadequate. With many families lacking basic clothing and shelter during the cold winter nights, UNICEF has managed to provide some assistance, yet the scale of need far exceeds available resources.
Crickx lamented the ongoing hardships faced by many who have already been displaced multiple times throughout the last two years of conflict, emphasizing that a significant part of this crisis lies in the persistent lack of adequate humanitarian support.
In addition to the immediate need for food and hygiene supplies, the UN and agencies like the International Committee of the Red Cross stress the importance of rebuilding essential infrastructure, calling for the global community to prioritize reconstruction efforts. The dire situation underscores the necessity for urgent action to support those struggling for survival in Gaza.
